I need to put in a plug in for the Ride to Survive, an epic one day 400 km bike ride from Kelowna to North Delta to raise funds for cancer research. Over a hundred riders participate each year, many of them cancer survivors themselves, and an army of volunteers help out. Their dedication has raised over $1 million over the last few years and because all the support for the ride is donated, every single dollar raised goes directly to cancer research. Just 15 years ago my type of cancer would have been considered incurable, and now thanks to progress in research and technical skills, I am being given up to an 80% chance of complete cure. So if you are looking to support a cause that will help prevent and treat cancer probably in someone you know, this is a good one. I was fortunate to be part of it on 3 previous years. Go to http://www.ride2survive.ca/, click donate, and pick a rider to sponsor, perhaps Dave C or Erin E, friends who will be riding with my name painted on their legs this year.
I am continuing to do well, today sitting on the patio looking out at the sea as I blog this. Minor setback yesterday with a fever so I was placed on antibiotics as a precaution, and am feeling fine right now.
Lots of great support including a huge food and book card from the office, dark chocolate and Canuck cupcakes from Kerry, Oolong Green Tea from the Yu's, and an edible fruit arrangement from the Sahota family:
I am continuing to do well, today sitting on the patio looking out at the sea as I blog this. Minor setback yesterday with a fever so I was placed on antibiotics as a precaution, and am feeling fine right now.
Lots of great support including a huge food and book card from the office, dark chocolate and Canuck cupcakes from Kerry, Oolong Green Tea from the Yu's, and an edible fruit arrangement from the Sahota family:
Dear Steve, Your blog is an extension of your creative ways in continuously reaching out to the community despite the circumstances. As your pictures say it all, you are back on your bike and the community embraces that. Am inspired by the stories and pictures. Thank you for your energy and strength. Keep on going! Warmest regards, Brenda
ReplyDeleteHi Dr. Larigakis:
ReplyDeleteDiana and I just found out this very sad news about you and this cursed disease called cancer. We are so sorry you have to go through these trying times dealing with this disease.
Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers and we are confident you will beat this.
On a personal note Dr. Steve - it takes us back to Sept 1996 when our beloved Dad and husband was under your wonderful care dealing with pancreatic cancer.
We could not have been more lucky to have had doctors like you and Carolyn helping us through this very stressful time in our lives. What other doctor would have taken the time on his lunch break to ride his bike over to our and check in on Garth. You have always had a special place in our hearts Dr. Steve. It just saddens us to think that now you have to go through these times.
Please continue to enjoy your Mom’s cooking, your walks with Carolyn & your time with family and friends. It is this support that will pull you through this. You are so right – you never know when this
hideous disease will strike so enjoying life and family is so important.
Keep strong and thank you for this wonderful blog that allows us into your life during this difficult time. I think sometimes sharing with others helps us in the long run.
P.S. Please tell Carolyn we really miss her as our family doctor. Hugs to you both.
Best wishes,
Pam Robertson & Diana Robertson
Nanoose Bay BC & Surrey BC
From a team leader in the Ride 2 Survive, to becoming one whose name is on the legs of riders, what a dramatic change of events. To the riders going out there this weekend, thank you for your support, hard work, and dedication. Perhaps I'll join you next year. And to Steven, you'll be back with the gang one day, a survivor yourself, doing the climb out of Kelowna at the front of the pack (no EPO's required) stronger than ever.
ReplyDeleteyour loving sis,
Michelle
Steve, I just wanted you to know I made a donation in your honour to support my brother-in-law, Tobin Copley, who is doing the ride again this year...
ReplyDeleteThought you'd like this Steve, courtesy of Tobin: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ttcopley/5850914708/in/set-72157626876323057
ReplyDeleteHey Dr. L, Gary and I were shocked to hear the news, but we know you will beat this. You are the best doctor and we miss you! Coincidentally, our daughter, Jenny-Lynn, is in the midst of raising funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC) as a member of Team In Training. We just know you will make a full recovery and know that we are thinking of you often.
ReplyDeleteHugs, Denise and Gary Branham